Introduction to Hiroshima Prefecture
Hiroshima Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading tourist destinations, home to two World Heritage Sites, including the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine. Although the atomic bombing caused great damage in the past, Hiroshima has recovered and now attracts many tourists from all over the world.
The Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine are the first two tourist attractions in Hiroshima. The Atomic Bomb Dome is a structure that survived the atomic bombing and remains unmolested, and still bears witness to the tragedy of the time. Itsukushima Shrine is a World Heritage site with its beautiful vermilion torii gates floating in the Seto Inland Sea.
In addition to the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima has many other attractive tourist spots. Onomichi is a popular tourist destination with its beautiful sloping streets and art. Kure has spots where you can feel the history of the navy and enjoy the spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Oysters and okonomiyaki are the most famous gourmet foods in Hiroshima. For oysters, visitors can taste fresh oysters grown in the rich waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Okonomiyaki, called Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, is characterized by its fluffy texture.
Hiroshima Prefecture is a tourist destination rich in history, culture, nature, cuisine, and many other attractions.
Geographic location
Hiroshima Prefecture is located in the Chugoku region in the western part of the Japanese archipelago. Located at approximately 132-133°E longitude and 34-35°N latitude, it faces the Chugoku Mountains to the northwest and the Seto Inland Sea to the south. Hiroshima City is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and is designated as an ordinance-designated city.
Hiroshima Prefecture covers an area of approximately 8,500 km2, of which about 75% is mountainous and only about 5% lowlands. The mountainous area is home to many tourist attractions, including Mt. Osorahan (1,363 m), the highest peak in the Chugoku Mountains, and Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni City.
The coastal area facing the Seto Inland Sea is an expanse of plains, with port cities and industrial zones.
History
Hiroshima is also known as a place filled with memories of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and wishes for peace. The history of Hiroshima can be learned in detail at the Atomic Bomb Museum.
Hiroshima is not only a place to learn about war, but also Hiroshima Castle, built in the Edo period in Japan, is located in the center of the city. It was destroyed by an atomic bomb, but was rebuilt and restored in 1958. It is a well-known historical spot that provides emotional support to the citizens.
It is also home to Itsukushima Shrine, which is believed to have been built about 1,400 years ago. It has become famous as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan and was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It takes about 40 minutes by boat from the center of Hiroshima.
Culture
There is a culture unique to the region, such as the Hiroshima Carp professional baseball team and Hiroshima okonomiyaki.
Fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea is also available, and oysters are especially famous. There is a culture of eating them with Hiroshima okonomiyaki and rice.
Onomichi has a different atmosphere from central Hiroshima, and its retro and quaint town atmosphere is popular among young Japanese. It is a fashionable town with many small streets and slopes, lots of cats, and every part of the city is photo-worthy. There are many cafes and Onomichi ramen stores.
Since there are many remote islands, a well-developed boat transportation network is in place to get to and from the other side of the coast. No special reservations are required, and locals ride the boats by bicycle, on foot, or by car.
Tourist attraction
Hiroshima Prefecture has many sightseeing spots, including World Heritage sites such as the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Peace Memorial Park, including the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome, is located in the center of Hiroshima City and honors the city’s history as a city devastated by the atomic bomb during World War II. The park also includes the Atomic Bomb Museum and the Peace Bell.
Atomic Bomb Dome
The building was exposed to the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, and miraculously survived. It has become a symbol of peace, conveying the tragic events of that time to the present. Located in Peace Memorial Park, the building preserves the traces of the atomic bombing intact. It is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Miyajima
Miyajima Island, located in Hiroshima Bay, is known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan and is famous for Itsukushima Shrine, whose torii gate stands in the sea. This beautiful landscape and its historical buildings attract many tourists.
Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle, filled with the history of the samurai, is located in Hiroshima City. Inside the castle there is a museum and exhibition hall where visitors can enjoy the history of the castle and the beautiful surrounding gardens.
Kure
The city once flourished as a naval base. There are spots where you can feel the history of the navy and enjoy the spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Onomichi
Onomichi City is located in Hiroshima Prefecture and is known for its unique scenery and culture. Onomichi ramen, Onomichi’s slopes and beautiful scenery are well worth a visit.
These attractions allow visitors to experience the history, culture, and natural beauty of Hiroshima. During your visit to Hiroshima, be sure to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima to experience the area’s charms.
Food culture
Below is a detailed description of Hiroshima’s gourmet offerings.
Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki consists of layers of especially shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, pork, noodles, and eggs, seasoned with sauce and mayonnaise. Characteristic of this dish is its layered structure, with noodles placed in the center and toppings layered on top. Local ingredients are used to create a wide variety of okonomiyaki. Many restaurants also allow customers to enjoy the cooking process of okonomiyaki.
Oyster Dishes
Hiroshima is known as the largest producer of oysters in Japan, and visitors can enjoy dishes using fresh oysters. A variety of oyster dishes such as oyster sashimi, fried oysters, steamed oysters with sake, and oyster rice are offered. Enjoy the plump texture and flavor of fresh oysters.
Soupless Tan Tan Noodles
Originating in Hiroshima, soup-less noodle soup is characterized by the spiciness and aroma of chili peppers. Thin noodles are topped with a special sauce to create a savory aroma and spiciness. Ingredients used include pork, green onions, and bean sprouts, and is recommended for those who enjoy spicy food.
Ko-iwashi
Small sardines are small fish caught in the seas around Hiroshima and are a well-known local delicacy of the area. Hiroshima is the only place in Japan where fresh small sardines can be eaten raw as sashimi, nigiri, pressed sushi, or tempura.
Uni-Horen
Uni Horen is a local dish of Hiroshima known to those in the know. It is a simple dish of sea urchin and spinach stir-fried in butter and soy sauce. Although simple, the rich flavor of the sea urchin stands out, and the texture and flavor of the spinach are a perfect match. In particular, the use of fresh sea urchin from Hiroshima allows you to fully enjoy the local flavor. It is also enjoyed with extra sauce on a baguette.
Anago-meshi
Anago-meshi is rice topped with grilled conger eel (anago), and is one of Hiroshima’s local dishes. The sweet and spicy flavor of the kabayaki goes perfectly with the rice.
Fried Momiji
Aged momiji is a fried sweet shaped like a momiji manju and filled with anko (sweet bean paste). They are popular as souvenirs in tourist areas.
Kure Navy Curry
Kure Navy Curry was developed to help personnel on board ships belonging to Kure Air Base remember what it feels like to be at sea on a day of the week. It is served with a rich roux, rice, and sausages as toppings. Visitors can enjoy the curry with a sense of history.
These Hiroshima delicacies reflect local ingredients and traditions and are a great way to experience the local flavor during your visit.
Activities
Hiroshima Prefecture offers a variety of activities.
Shimanami Kaido Cycling
You can explore the beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea while cycling.
Ferry to Miyajima
Access to Itsukushima Shrine is by ferry, which offers a scenic view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Watching the Hiroshima Carp
Attend a Hiroshima Carp game and become one with the passionate baseball fans.
Seasonal Recommendations
Seasonal recommendations for Hiroshima depend on the season, when you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery and traditional events. Below are detailed recommendations for each season in Hiroshima.
Spring
Visit to cherry blossom viewing spots
Spring is the season of cherry blossoms, and Hiroshima is home to many beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima are especially famous for their cherry blossoms.
picnic to view cherry blossoms
Visitors can enjoy hanami picnics at parks and gardens in Hiroshima. Celebrate the arrival of spring with the locals.
Cherry blossoms at Miyajima
Miyajima is known for its cherry blossoms, and the collaboration of Itsukushima Shrine and cherry blossoms is a wonderful sight.
Summer
Firework(s) display
Many fireworks displays are held in and around Hiroshima. The Miyajima Fireworks Festival in particular offers a fusion of the beautiful scenery of Miyajima and fireworks.
Island hopping in the Seto Inland Sea
Summer is the best time to visit the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. You can refresh yourself on the beautiful beaches.
Autumn
Leaves changing color (colour)
Autumn foliage in Hiroshima is beautiful and can be enjoyed at many famous places such as Arashiyama and Miyajima.
Hiroshima kagura
This is an opportunity to view a traditional kagura performance.
Winter
The first sunrise of the year at Miyajima
On the first day of the New Year, welcome the first sunrise in the beautiful scenery of Miyajima.
Visit to a garden in Hiroshima
Temples and gardens offer quiet and beautiful winter scenery.
Illumination of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
The monuments in Peace Memorial Park will be decorated with beautiful illuminations, creating a special atmosphere.
Hiroshima’s recommended seasonal activities provide opportunities to enjoy nature and culture to the fullest. No matter what season you visit, you will be able to experience the charm of Hiroshima.
Local Culture
The culture of Hiroshima consists of many elements, including history, art, traditional events, and the peace movement.
Culture of peace and harmony
Known as the site of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Hiroshima sends a strong message of peace and nuclear disarmament. Peace Park and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum embody the city’s commitment to peace, and many visitors come to experience the history of the atomic bombing and pray for peace. The Peace Memorial Ceremony is held every year on August 6 to mark the anniversary of the atomic bombing (Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Day) and is attended by representatives from around the world.
Traditional crafts
Hiroshima is also known for its traditional crafts, and is rich in Hiroshima-yaki (Hiroshima ceramics), textiles, and lacquerware. These crafts are manufactured to meet modern needs while preserving traditional techniques and designs. It is well worth a visit for crafts seekers.
Okonomiyaki Culture
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a traditional dish loved throughout Japan. In Hiroshima, okonomiyaki is served in a distinctive style, with ingredients stacked in layers and covered with Hiroshima-style sauce. You can enjoy this delicious dish at local okonomiyaki restaurants.
Hiroshima Festival
Hiroshima is home to many festivals, allowing visitors to experience traditional festival culture. A wide variety of events, such as the Hiroshima Peace Festival and the Hiroshima Dream Festival, showcase local culture and art.
Hiroshima’s culture is a perfect combination of commitment to peace, traditional crafts, okonomiyaki, and festivals, and offers much to the visitor. When you visit Hiroshima, you will have the opportunity to explore its diverse culture and experience the local charm.
Transportation
Access to Hiroshima Prefecture can be by plane, bullet train, or bus. For air travel, it takes about 30 minutes from Hiroshima Airport to the city by bus. For the Shinkansen, it takes about 4 hours from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station. By bus, it takes about 10 hours from Tokyo Station to Hiroshima Station.
Airplane
Hiroshima is served by Hiroshima Airport (Hiroshima International Airport), which offers flights from major cities and international destinations. From the center of Hiroshima City, access is available by cab or bus. Aviation is a good and time-saving means of travel over distance.
Shinkansen
It takes about 4 hours from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station by Shinkansen bullet train. Hiroshima has a well-developed railroad network, with Shinkansen and conventional lines intersecting around Hiroshima Station.
Express Bus
It takes about 10 hours from Tokyo Station to Hiroshima Station by bus. There are many bus services, especially from neighboring cities, making this a relatively economical option. Express buses are convenient for long-distance travel.
Car
If you drive a car, highways are available for access to Hiroshima. It is connected to major expressways, and rental cars are also available. However, traffic can be heavy, so be aware of congestion.
Ferry
Ferry service is provided from Kure City to Hiroshima City. Ferry service is an alternative to sea travel and is especially convenient when accessing the city from Onomichi or Kure City. The service sails in Hiroshima Bay.
The best mode of transportation to Hiroshima depends on your point of departure, your plans, and your personal preferences. Choose the best option for your itinerary and budget, and enjoy Hiroshima’s beautiful scenery and culture.
Lastly
Hiroshima Prefecture is a great place for visitors to enjoy history, peace, beautiful nature, and delicious food. Enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery, activities, and local culture.